In January this year, Yang and her family members also moved into new accommodation constructed by the government, which has decreased their monthly rent to 700 yuan ($101) from about 3,000 yuan.

"Right now, I am living with my daughter, brother and nephew," said Yang. "I am really happy to live with my family; life here feels just like life in Taiwan."

She also revealed that she is planning to buy a property in Pingtan and settle in the city.

But Yang is not resting on her laurels after her initial success. "Pingtan provides me an important platform, and I would like to make the most of it to expand the business to more areas on the mainland," she said.

The duty-free vendor has already made a start on this new challenge by promoting her Taiwan merchandise at various exhibitions in Guangdong, Guangxi, Shandong and other mainland provinces.

The new Pingtan resident is also working to make a contribution to the community in her adopted home.

In addition to being a businesswoman, Yang also has another identity as deputy president of the Aoqian branch of the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises in Pingtan.

A lot of businesspeople from Taiwan who are considering investing in Pingtan ask her for advice beforehand, and Yang is always happy patiently to introduce the city based on her own experiences.

"I feel so glad that I can help people from my hometown," said Yang. "And I hope through my efforts, more Taiwan people shall come to Pingtan."

Taiwan residents are able to apply for the Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents in Pingtan, Fujian province, a special permit that is valid for up to five years. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]